Why is your sport horse not performing at its best? In this insightful round table discussion, Dr. Mike Pownall and the veterinary team at McKee-Pownall break down the multi-layered causes of poor performance in equine athletes. From subtle lameness and dental pain to ulcers and metabolic disease, this episode explores the interconnected systems that influence your horse’s health and rideability.

Joined by Drs. Esther Millares, Natalie Sanza, and Katelyn McNicol—with lead vet assistant Karen Foell—this episode emphasizes the importance of early detection, diagnostic precision, and a collaborative care approach. Whether you’re a competitive rider, trainer, or passionate owner, this episode will change the way you think about what’s really going on when your horse feels “off.”

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to the EquiConnect Podcast

01:20 – Why poor performance isn't just lameness

03:00 – Most common causes of lameness in sport horses

05:20 – When it’s not the limbs: other sources of poor performance

07:00 – Dental health: the missing link in equine performance

09:15 – Signs of dental pain and behavioural clues

11:00 – How often should your horse’s teeth be checked?

12:30 – Bit-related injuries and overlooked oral discomfort

13:00 – Gastric ulcers: pain, behavior, and underperformance

15:00 – Why diagnosis matters before treatment

17:30 – Preventing ulcers through diet, stress reduction, and training plans

20:00 – Understanding metabolic disease: EMS and Cushing's

23:30 – Preventing laminitis and managing metabolic horses

25:00 – Myths that delay proper care

27:00 – Supplements, shoeing, and the importance of diagnostics

30:00 – New tools: regenerative therapies and smarter supplements

32:00 – The power of teamwork: vet, farrier, body worker, nutritionist

33:00 – Final thoughts and takeaways

Quotes

“Believing a stiff horse is just naughty is like blaming your car for being slow when the tires are flat.” – Dr. Esther​ Millares

“Dental pain can be constant and invisible—but it affects everything from eating to contact under saddle.” – Dr. Katelyn McNichol

“Gastric ulcers don’t just hurt—they change your horse’s entire mindset.” – Dr. Natalie ​Sanza

“Education and empathy—not judgment—are how we improve sport horse care.” – Dr. Esther​Millares

“Diagnosis isn’t just a step—it’s the foundation for treatment that works.” – Dr. Natalie​ Sanza

Key Takeaways & Resources

Diagnosing Poor Performance

• Poor performance is rarely caused by a single issue. Often, subtle lameness, gastric discomfort, dental problems, and metabolic disorders overlap.
• Know your horse’s “normal.” Behavioural changes are often the first clue.

Dental Health

• Subtle dental pain may show up as training resistance, chewing abnormalities, or changes in body condition.
• Annual dental exams are essential; some horses benefit from 6–9 month intervals.

Gastric Ulcers

• Ulcers cause both physical and behavioural symptoms and are common in sport horses.
• Gastroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis and should guide tailored treatment plans.
• Management includes low-stress environments, frequent hay access, and limited high-intensity work.

Metabolic Conditions

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s Disease (PPID) can impact energy, recovery, and condition.
• Laminitis prevention starts with early diagnosis, diet changes, and consistent exercise.

Advanced Therapies

• Tools like stem cell therapy, PRP, and IRAP are extending equine careers and targeting healing.

Collaborative Care

• Optimal health outcomes come from teamwork: vets, farriers, nutritionists, trainers, and body workers.
• Trust your gut—if your horse doesn’t feel right, investigate further.

Learn more at http://www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

In this episode of the EquiConnect Podcast, Dr. Mike Pownall and co-host Karen Foell dive into the crucial topic of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) with veterinarians Dr. Rafael Gomez and Dr. Natalie Sanza. They explore the different types of ulcers, common causes, and cutting-edge treatment approaches. Listeners will gain valuable insights into diagnosing and managing this prevalent condition in horses, as well as key strategies for prevention. Plus, get an exclusive look at the upcoming Gastroscopy Open House Event—a must-attend opportunity for horse owners to see gastroscopy in action. Whether you're a competitive rider, trainer, or dedicated horse owner, this episode is packed with expert knowledge to help keep your horse healthy and happy.

Timestamps:

 [00:00:00] – Introduction to the EquiConnect Podcast and episode overview

 [00:01:00] – Meet the experts: Dr. Rafael Gomez & Dr. Natalie Senza

 [00:02:00] – What is Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)?

[00:03:00] – The two types of gastric ulcers: Squamous vs. Glandular

[00:04:30] – Causes of equine ulcers: Feeding, stress, and more

[00:08:00] – How feeding schedules affect ulcer development

[00:09:30] – Stress and its impact on gastric health

[00:11:00] – Shocking statistics: How common are gastric ulcers?

[00:14:00] – Diagnosing ulcers: Why gastroscopy is the gold standard

[00:17:00] – Recognizing symptoms: Poor performance, weight loss, and more

[00:19:00] – The role of treatment: Omeprazole, GastroGard, and other medications

[00:25:00] – Preventing ulcers: The power of management & nutrition

[00:31:00] – Three pillars of ulcer prevention: Management, supplements, and medication

[00:34:00] – Post-treatment care: How to prevent relapse

[00:36:00] – Exciting event: Gastroscopy Open House on March 22nd

[00:40:00] – Final thoughts & key takeaways

Notable Quotes:

“More than half of the horse population suffers from ulcers—whether they’re in the wild or in competition.” – Dr. Rafael Gomez

 “The only way to diagnose ulcers with certainty is through gastroscopy—there is no magic test from the outside.” – Dr. Natalie Sanza

 “If we don’t change management after treatment, ulcers can return in as little as two days.” – Dr. Rafael Gomez

 “Management is the best medicine. The right feeding schedule, turnout, and stress reduction are key.” – Dr. Natalie Sanza

Resources & Mentioned Topics:

📌 Gastroscopy Open House Event – March 22nd, 2025 at the Campbellville location

Learn more at http://www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

Mentioned in this episode:

Gastroscopy Promotion

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025.

In this episode, we explore the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian veterinary goods. While tariffs are often expected to disrupt industries, the veterinary field may be more insulated than anticipated. We discuss how tariffs might (or might not) affect medication prices, service fees, and product availability for horse owners. Additionally, we dive into the challenges of sourcing equine medications in Canada—an issue that goes beyond tariffs. Dr. Mike Pownall sheds light on what equestrians can expect in the coming months.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the Episode

[00:01:00] Overview of U.S. tariffs and their potential effects on veterinary products

[00:02:00] Will tariffs impact the cost of equine medications? (Prevequine, Prascend, Bute, Banamine)

[00:03:00] What products are currently affected? (Saddlery, blankets, and some supplements)

[00:04:00] Will service fees increase at McKee-Pownall?

[00:05:00] Broader economic concerns for horse owners (inflation, rising costs, consumer spending)

[00:06:00] The real challenge: Regulatory barriers to medication availability in Canada

[00:07:30] How drug shortages—not tariffs—pose the bigger threat to equine healthcare

[00:08:30] Medication shortages

[00:09:00] Closing remarks & where to find more information

Learn more at http://www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

Mentioned in this episode:

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025.

Gastroscopy Promotion

In this episode, Dr. Mike Pownall interviews Marnie Raymond, a newly certified Equine Diplomat of Osteopathy (EDO), and Dr. Kate Robinson about McKee Pownall's new osteopathy service. They discuss the foundations of equine osteopathy, its benefits, and how it complements traditional veterinary care.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction and welcome

[00:01:00] Marnie's background and new osteopathy certification

[00:02:00] Definition of osteopathy and its three main systems

[00:04:00] Discussion of Vluggan Institute training program

[00:07:00] Dr. Robinson's visceral module training

[00:11:00] Whole horse approach and system interconnections

[00:14:00] When osteopathy is recommended

[00:16:00] Explanation of visceral assessment and manipulation

[00:18:00] Typical appointment structure and duration

[00:21:00] Follow-up recommendations and treatment frequency

[00:23:00] Impact on existing bodywork approaches

[00:28:00] Key learning moments and insights

Key Takeaways:

Equine osteopathy focuses on three main systems: musculoskeletal (parietal), cranial sacral, and visceral (organs)

Treatment sessions typically last 1.5-3 hours depending on the type of examination

The Vluggan Institute training program is recognized by the International Registrar of Equine Osteopaths (IREO)

Osteopathy can benefit horses including horses with:

• Behavioral changes
• Lead pick-up issues
• Mystery lameness
• Recurring pain
• Post-injury recovery

Collaboration between veterinarians and osteopaths provides comprehensive care

Treatment involves detailed assessment of the whole horse, including internal organ mobility

Regular follow-ups are recommended to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans

The approach emphasizes treating the whole horse rather than isolated symptoms

Notable Quote: "The systems of the horse do not act in isolation, and we're probably doing the horse a disservice if we try and treat them that way." - Dr. Kate Robinson

Learn more at www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

Mentioned in this episode:

Gastroscopy Promotion

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025.

In this special holiday episode, host Karen Foell and the McKee Pownall Equine Services team reflect on their memorable moments from 2024, sharing stories of triumph, learning, and community impact in veterinary medicine.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to EquiConnect Podcast

00:31 - Holiday Reflections and Highlights

00:56 - Memorable Cases and Experiences

03:57 - Community and Charity Initiatives

05:17 - Special Cases and Client Stories

10:14 - Team Highlights and Personal Achievements

10:43 - Looking Forward to 2025

Highlights

This special edition celebrates the achievements and memorable moments of 2024, featuring:

• Challenging medical cases and their successful resolutions
• Implementation of new behavior modification services
• Team collaboration successes
• Community support initiatives
• Personal growth and professional development stories

Brought to you by McKee Pownall Equine Services

Disclaimer

This podcast content is for informational purposes only and should not substitute for professional veterinary care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025.

Join EquiConnect's latest episode where Dr. Mike Pownall and Karen Foell team up with dental enthusiast and McKee-Pownall associate veterinarian, Dr. Katelyn McNichol to get the whole tooth (and nothing but the tooth) about equine dentistry. From tooth anatomy and prevalent dental issues to the critical role of preventive care in horses they explore why your horse's smile matters more than you might think. Plus, hear the fascinating tale of Teddy, a horse whose toothache turned into a much bigger headache - literally! Dr. McNichol walks us through the diagnosis and treatment of a sinus infection secondary to a tooth root infection. While this episode may make you the most informed person at the barn when it comes to dental care, remember: this podcast is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary care.

00:00 Introduction to EquiConnect Podcast

00:31 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:08 Dr. Katelyn McNichol's Background

03:54 Equine Dentistry Insights

17:32 Common Dental Issues in Horses

25:10 Case Study: Teddy's Sinus Infection

36:06 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Learn more at www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

Mentioned in this episode:

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025.

In this episode of the EquiConnect podcast, hosts Dr. Mike Pownall and Karen Foell, along with guest Dr. Kate Robinson, discuss the timely topic of fall laminitis in horses. They explore what laminitis is, why fall presents a higher risk for this condition, and the factors like cool nights and high sugar grass that can contribute to it. The conversation covers the impact of conditions like metabolic syndrome and PPID (Cushing’s disease) on laminitis risks, particularly in older horses. The discussion also highlights how managing diet, exercise, and grazing habits can mitigate these risks. Dr. Kate Robinson and Dr. Mike Pownall share insights on recognizing symptoms, testing for PPID, and specific hoof care strategies to help afflicted horses.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to EquiConnect Podcast

01:01 Welcoming Dr. Kate Robinson

01:38 Understanding Laminitis

02:55 Fall Laminitis Risks

07:04 Managing Laminitis in Horses

11:47 Symptoms and Testing for PPID

14:58 Preventative Measures and Care

23:22 Farrier's Perspective on Laminitis

29:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Learn more at www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at [email protected]

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

In this episode of the EquiConnect Podcast, host Dr. Mike Pownall welcomes Dr. Esther Millares from McKee Panel Equine Services - Campbellville to discuss the emerging field of orthobiologics. The conversation delves into the definition, applications, and benefits of orthobiologics like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), IRAP, and ProStride for treating equine musculoskeletal issues. Dr. Millares explains how these regenerative therapies work, their advantages over traditional treatments, and common misconceptions. The episode emphasizes the importance of consulting veterinarians for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.

Dr Esther Millares started her professional career after graduating in 2012 in Madrid, Spain where she did an equine rotating internship at the Alfonso X El Sabio Veterinary Teaching Hospital. During this time, her interest in sport medicine and equine surgery increased and she decided to pursue a career in sports medicine.

She then started a second internship at Paton & Martin Veterinary Services in Vancouver, Canada, an equine clinic with a large orthopedic and lameness caseload. During this experience, she was afforded the opportunity to work with elite sport horses that suffered a range of orthopedic injuries and allowed her to refine her lameness skills.

Afterwards, she completed a two-year Equine Sports Medicine Fellowship and a one-year Equine Field service Fellowship (Junior specialist) at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of California-Davis, USA. Dr. Millares then enrolled in an Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency program (ACVSMR Practice Experience), completed a certification in acupuncture by the Chi Institute in Florida, and achieved a kinesiotaping certification by Equi-Tape. During her time as a fellow and resident, she was able to develop some interest in research studies, which motivated her to pursue a Master of Sciences (MSc) at the University of Montreal (UdeM). Following graduation of the MSc, she was hired as an equine clinician at the veterinary teaching hospital (CHUV) of the University of Montreal and continues collaborating as a veterinary researcher at the Equine Asthma Research Laboratory of the UdeM.

During her time as a veterinarian, she has taken many different opportunities to learn and become very proficient at the diagnosis of basic and complex lameness, regenerative medicine, diagnostic imaging, routine medicine procedures, and acupuncture among others.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Equi Connect Podcast

00:37 Meet Dr. Esther Millares

02:28 Understanding Orthobiologics

04:21 Types of Orthobiologics

07:40 Clinical Applications and Benefits

09:43 Cost and Frequency of Treatments

12:46 Myths and Misconceptions

14:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For more information visit www.mckeepownall.ca or email [email protected]

In this episode, Karen Foell hosts Dr. Marisa Markey as they introduce a new fear-free behavioral service for equine patients at McKee-Pownall. Dr. Markey, a seasoned associate at the clinic, recently obtained a fear-free equine certification and discusses the importance of using positive reinforcement and behaviour modification techniques to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in horses during veterinary visits. The episode wraps up with valuable resources for further understanding and implementing equine behaviour modification so take a listen to learn more! Visit www.mckeepownall.ca for more details.

Join Dr. Mike Pownall, Karen Foell, and McKee-Pownall associate veterinarian, Dr. Alejandra Garza as they share valuable tips for ensuring your horse is prepared to perform at its best during the summer months. From preseason examinations to personalized care tailored to your horse's unique requirements, this episode covers a comprehensive range of topics. Gain insights into joint injections, equine asthma treatments, and the importance of avoiding steroids for metabolic horses. Grab your earbuds and tune in to get informed and prepared for a successful summer riding season.

Visit www.mckeepownall.ca for more information or email [email protected]

Time Stamps:

00:00 Welcome to EquiConnect: A Podcast on Equine Health

00:51 Summer Riding Prep: Getting Your Horse Ready

02:59 Deep Dive into Preseason Exams and Horse Health

04:34 Mid-Season Check-ups: Ensuring Ongoing Equine Wellness

15:21 Addressing Equine Asthma: Tips and Treatments

18:19 MythBusters: Debunking Equine Health Myths

24:19 Closing Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up